Fierce winds are fueling a wildfire in southwest Miami-Dade, which has spread to 24,000 acres. The fire, known as the 344 Fire, started Tuesday and continues on its fourth day. As of yesterday, it is 30% contained, according to NBC Miami.
A fire weather watch is in effect for Friday from 10 a.m. through the evening, and a change in wind direction is expected. Ludi Bond from the Florida Forest Service explained, "We've had some winds out of the south, southwest, southeast now. They're moving more towards the north, so that means it's gonna change the direction of the progression of the fire," NBC Miami reported. Crews are also focused on protecting nearby structures and the Homestead-Miami Speedway due to the upcoming NASCAR Cup series.
Travel disruptions have occurred, with U.S. 1 experiencing intermittent closures, and Card Sound Road is completely closed. While no injuries have been reported and no structures are under immediate threat, the fire’s proximity to roads and the speedway is causing concern among local officials. Increased spring break traffic is also a factor.
The fire has impacted power lines and communication towers, according to Hoodline, further complicating the situation. U.S. Highway 1 was closed for about four hours last tuesday, and Monroe County officials are urging people to avoid the area. The fire has affected 3,600 acres and is only 20% contained.
Aerial efforts are critical due to challenging ground conditions. "It is dry enough for everything to burn, but wet enough that we can’t put our equipment there without sinking. So it’s very challenging," said Kevin MacEwen from the Florida Forest Service, as reported by NBC Miami. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue helicopters are using Bambi Buckets to dump water on the fire.
Firefighters continue to battle the flames and challenging conditions. With low humidity and strong winds, the Fire Weather Watch warns of the potential for rapid fire spread. Officials are advising against outdoor burning as crews work to contain the fire and ensure public safety.
